Daniel Jongma
ACTOR
As a self-confessed "whinging Pom" (a Brit!), I have to say I’ve been completely won over by the incredible Australians I’ve met in the Vertical Industry. From fans to creatives, you’re all brilliant, and I must acknowledge that the Aussie vertical content scene is well ahead of what we’re doing in the UK—though exciting developments are happening here too, so watch this space!
One of the most generous people I’ve met is actor Daniel Jongma. From the beginning, he has been incredibly open in sharing insights and answering my questions. He’s also now running the Instagram account @actingvertical, where he shares valuable insights and has exciting plans, including a podcast and collaborations.
What do you do in the Vertical Industry?
Actor - Hero and Villain (soon to be director! 🤫)
How old are you?
23
How did you come across Vertical Dramas?
First acting job and then it kept going.
What is your favourite project you have worked on so far?
Accelerating Love on Reelshort (got to 'drive' expensive cars)
What is the craziest thing you have found yourself doing while working on a vertical?
Pushing a costar off a yacht into Sydney Harbour.
Any funny stories you can share with us?
I witnessed one of my co-stars slip on a wedding dress and put their foot through a beautiful stained-glass window in a church. They were uninjured (thankfully) but I can't say as much for the window.
Who is your unsung hero? Someone in the industry who should get more credit?
Alex Pychtin. Great actor, even better person. Very grounded, nice to be around, and incredibly professional.
What do you wish more people knew about verticals?
How fast they are shot - max 2 weeks, sometimes as little as 5 days. Little (sometimes no) rehearsal time, often only 1-2 takes.
When I get a schedule more than 7 days I'm so happy because it means more time to perform.
What developments would you like to see in the industry in the year ahead?
More cinematic shots. Fast schedules limit creativity but hopefully as the industry diversifies quality and budget, we should see more creative developments in the use of the vertical frame.
I want a medieval and a surfing vertical!
What are you most proud of?
Becoming a full time actor. I was an accountant but I love the spontaneity and social aspects of being an actor.
Which vertical actor would you like to play you in the biopic of your life?
Am I allowed to say me?
3 Random Facts:
⭐ I stream Minecraft on TikTok
⭐ I used to swim 6 times a week, and I love the ocean (I'm too busy nowadays but I do my best to get to the beach)
⭐ I have a beautiful tuxedo cat named Ariel
Favourite snack:
Nachos
Current earworm:
Everlong - Foo Fighters
Currently reading:
A bunch of scripts
Last movie you saw at the cinema:
Wicked
Thank you Daniel 🙏🏼
Please do check out:
🎞️ Accelerating Love & I Hired A Billionaire Manny on Reelshort
📸 Daniel’s Instagram @danjongma
📸 Daniel’s Instagram Account for the Vertical Community @actingvertical
